Gabriel Jesus is relishing the chance to play for Arsenal after an injury-plagued season

Gabriel Jesus made a successful return to football after scoring in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Manchester United and is looking forward to playing regular games again.

The striker played 36 games last season for the Gunners and was forced to deal with a knee injury that kept him sidelined. His lack of time on the pitch has seen him miss out on a place in Brazil’s Copa America squad – with teammates Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes making the shortlist.

Instead he spent his summer training in preparation for Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States. Jesus started the attack alongside Leandro Trossard and Reiss Nelson in the Gunners v United match – scoring in the first half to bring the sides level.

“My last pre-season was not good because I felt my knee,” he said after the victory. “I had to have an operation and I missed the pre-season. So, I was trying to force it during the pre-season, but in the end I couldn’t and I had an operation.

“It was difficult after coming back, but this season is different. I could enjoy my holidays and train a lot, and I was focused on coming back well and doing a good pre-season. Now I’m in a different situation and he can play football again.”

Rasmus Hojlund opened the scoring for the Red Devils, giving his team the lead in the 10th minute. After a few minutes, he was taken off the field after sustaining an injury, and Hannibal Mejbri took his place.

Speaking about the comeback win, Jesus added: “It’s always difficult when you drop points first. We came back and won the game, so that’s the most important thing. It shows that our team tried to win in any competition. Everyone was eligible. [to win]I think we deserved to win, and it was a good team performance.

“The derby, it’s a tough game, a Premier League game, they have a lot of quality and it’s tough. In the end, we won, that’s the most important thing. Obviously we’re preparing for the season, so think everyone’s happy.”

Arsenal face Liverpool on Thursday in their final US game. They will then return to the Emirates to host Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen before looking ahead to the new Premier League season.

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